Nascar has reached a confidential settlement with Front Row Motorsports and Michael Jordan’s 23XI Racing, ending an antitrust lawsuit filed in 2024. The agreement was announced on Thursday in a federal courtroom in Charlotte, one day after the plaintiffs rested their case following eight days of testimony.
The lawsuit alleged that Nascar used monopolistic and anti-competitive tactics to pressure teams into signing a new charter agreement. The charters, which guarantee entry into races and a share of revenue, were presented to teams during the 2024 playoffs with a firm deadline, sparking the legal dispute.
In a joint statement, Nascar, 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports said the resolution delivers “long-term stability” and creates conditions for “meaningful growth for all teams in a more competitive environment.” Financial terms were not disclosed. Michael Jordan, co-owner of 23XI Racing, said the lawsuit was about progress and ensuring the sport evolves to support everyone involved.
Nascar CEO Jim France expressed confidence that the agreement allows all parties to focus on delivering “unforgettable racing moments” for fans. Denny Hamlin, 23XI co-owner and Cup Series driver, said the fight was “worth it” for a stronger future. Front Row owner Bob Jenkins welcomed the change, saying it gives teams a real voice in Nascar’s future.
US District Judge Kenneth D. Bell, who oversaw the case, praised the settlement, calling it “great for Nascar, great for the teams, and ultimately great for the fans.” The trial had been ongoing for eight days before the settlement was reached.
